In a surprise move, Grandmasters of various fighting styles from around the world have renounced their styles in favour of one unified style known simply as Martial Arts. Years of arguments and feuds over which style is best have been laid aside and broken fences mended as it was recognised that all fighters were pretty much learning the same thing.
Grandmaster K'Po Chi, a seventh generation master of the Seven Star Mantis Kung Fu style, says this is a bitter pill to swallow but it is for the best. "It's hard to admit that my years spent training have been wasted, but I've come to realise that pretty much all kicks and punches are the same. That's why I've stopped teaching kung fu and now will teach Martial Arts."
Sensai Katherine Harbinger, a fourth dan black belt in Shotokan Karate and second dan black belt in Tsutsumi-ryu Ju Jitsu, agrees. "All along I felt I was learning the same thing over and over, regardless of the so-called style I was involved in. It's often been said that the different styles can learn from each other, so I think it's a good thing that everything now just sits under the one system."
Around the world, students of the different styles have thrown off their differences and embraced Martial Arts as the replacement; Krav Maga and Pencak Silat practioners have abandoned their specialities, Aikidoka and Wrestlers are starting to ignore their locks, throws and holds while Capoeria proponents and Savate players have embraced in the streets. The fighting world has become as one under Martial Arts with dojos and training facilities merging to teach all those who wish to learn.
Martial Arts has brought the world together like never before. Look in your local area for a teacher willing to teach you the only self defence techniques you will ever need!